Solar Panel Cost Guide in Syracuse, NY (2024 Update)
- Syracuse Solar Installation Cost: $11,835
- 25-Year Savings: $5,924
- Payback Period: 19.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Syracuse
We go over average solar pricing in Syracuse.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Syracuse typically cost around 4.Because a 4.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Syracuse, the average price of going solar will be about $11,835 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The true price you pay can go above or below the average in Syracuse depending on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Syracuse
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,932 |
| 3 years | $-9,127 |
| 5 years | $-7,321 |
| 7 years | $-5,516 |
| 9 years | $-3,711 |
| 11 years | $-1,905 |
| 13 years | $-100 |
| 15 years | $1,705 |
| 17 years | $3,511 |
| 19 years | $5,316 |
| 21 years | $7,121 |
| 23 years | $8,927 |
| 25 years | $10,732 |
Top Solar Installers in Syracuse
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar company since putting up a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar contractor as well, which can save you more money after your initial investment.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Syracuse
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Syracuse
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Syracuse: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Syracuse, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,650 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In many cases, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Syracuse, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.80 | $15,943 | $4,120 | 19.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $5,902 | 19.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $7,888 | 19.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $10,079 | 18.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $12,474 | 18.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $15,074 | 18.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $17,878 | 17.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $20,886 | 17.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Syracuse, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Syracuse?
The average cost of solar panels in Syracuse is about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Syracuse?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Does Syracuse have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.